
In this very special episode of Rubin On Point, Dr. Dan Rubin sits down with his former mentee, Dr. Melissa Coats—now a respected leader in naturopathic oncology with over 18 years of experience.
From their early days working together to personal journeys undertaken, this conversation explores the powerful intersection of medicine, empathy, and personal growth in the healing process.
Tune in for a heartwarming and insightful discussion about life, purpose, and the ongoing evolution that comes through both our challenges and our callings.
Chapters:
⏰ 00:00 – Introduction: Welcome to Rubin On PointDr. Dan Rubin kicks off the episode with an introduction to his guest, Dr. Melissa Coats, and shares a bit about their long-standing professional relationship.
⏰ 00:42 – The Start of a Journey: Meeting Dr. CoatsDr. Rubin and Dr. Coats reminisce about their first encounter years ago and the shared passions that led them to work together.
⏰ 02:10 – From Geriatrics to Oncology: The Path to Naturopathic MedicineDr. Coats reflects on her early interest in geriatrics and how she came to focus on oncology as part of her practice.
⏰ 04:00 – The Impact of Aging and WellnessThe two discuss how aging affects our health, with Dr. Coats sharing stories about older adults thriving in amazing health despite age.
⏰ 06:00 – The Importance of Primary Care in Naturopathic PracticeDr. Coats talks about the challenges and rewards of being a primary care physician within the naturopathic field.
⏰ 10:15 – The Balance of Being a Mom, Professional, and HealerDr. Coats opens up about the balancing act of being a mother, wife, and doctor, and how she finds fulfillment in each of these roles.
⏰ 13:30 – Equine Therapy: The Role of Horses in Dr. Coats’ LifeDr. Coats shares the impact that horses have had on her personal and professional life, offering lessons in responsibility, compassion, and strength.
⏰ 15:45 – Music & Healing: Dr. Coats’ Passion for Live MusicA surprising side of Dr. Coats is revealed as she talks about her love for heavy metal and how music serves as a powerful way to release energy and build connection.
⏰ 17:00 – Travel and Cultural Perspectives on MedicineDr. Coats discusses her travels and the ways that experiencing medicine in other cultures, particularly in China, shaped her approach to healing.
⏰ 20:00 – The Shift in Cancer Care: Understanding the Immune SystemThe conversation turns to cancer care advancements, including how a deeper understanding of the immune system is changing the way we treat and prevent cancer.
⏰ 25:30 – The Power of Therapeutic Diets and PersonalizationDr. Coats talks about the importance of personalized nutrition and how therapeutic diets are essential for the overall health of cancer patients.
⏰ 30:00 – Managing Stress and Health: The Power of MovementThe importance of exercise and movement for mental and physical health is highlighted as Dr. Coats discusses how movement is key to maintaining balance.
⏰ 35:00 – Innovations in Naturopathic Oncology and the FutureDr. Coats shares the latest exciting developments in naturopathic oncology, including cutting-edge treatments and partnerships that are making a difference.
⏰ 40:00 – Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Integrative OncologyLooking towards the future, Dr. Coats and Dr. Rubin discuss the direction of integrative oncology and the ongoing evolution of care for cancer patients.
⏰ 45:00 – Closing Thoughts: The Importance of Resilience in HealingWrapping up the episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Coats reflect on the power of resilience, compassion, and human connection in the practice of medicine.